Recap
CFR Cluj are going through a serious period of instability, with the club recently announcing its insolvency while still struggling to resolve the FIFA transfer ban imposed over outstanding debts. The situation is clearly affecting the team, and head coach Şumudića has openly expressed his frustration with the lack of squad depth and the inability to strengthen the team.
The coach’s comments perfectly illustrate the current situation:
“I don’t really have anyone to bring in. I don’t have players, I don’t have a squad, we lose players weekly. When I signed, I was convinced that we would be able to make five or six transfers. We can’t… I want to work, but I also need the necessary tools.”
CFR have also suffered several important departures – Karlo Muhar, Moreira, Huja, Pantalon and Costa have all left the club, while Damjan Djokovic recently terminated his contract. The situation has become even worse with the injury to Fica, who is expected to be out for an extended period.
The financial problems are equally concerning. FIFA continue to enforce the transfer ban because of unpaid salaries connected to five separate disputes with former players, while the club’s total liabilities have reportedly exceeded €24 million. Until these issues are resolved, CFR have very limited possibilities to rebuild a squad that is already becoming increasingly thin.
FCSB have an excellent opportunity to take advantage of the situation. They possess a deeper and more balanced squad and should be highly motivated to build momentum and put together a winning run.